Lupus

SLE entering Menapause; what about the Thymus

09/19/2001

Question:

SLE pt dx `83, had most major organs involved @ one time or another. Have had swollen glands (all over) for approx 5 yrs. Maintaining w/out any remission periods. SLE continues to be full of flare. I was wondering if my Thymus gland could be part of the problem. My main fear is that heading into menapausal range that my flares will increase in severity. What do I do about horomone therapy? Not sure my body could take more medication, already addicted to prednisone. :)

Answer:

The events occurring in the thymus are known to contribute to the development of lupus. However, at this stage we don`t know enough about it. More research will be required to understand the exact role of the thymus, and then to figure out how to correct it.

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